Innovative Graphite/Epoxy Sections in Bridge Construction: Monotonic and Fatigue Behavior

由于环境影响，美国许多公路桥梁正在老化，并显示出恶化的迹象。 未来的桥梁建设和主要桥梁修复需要创新和耐用的材料。 已知纤维增强塑料具有对环境影响的高耐受性。 需要一种跨学科的方法来研究FRP在桥梁工程中的潜在应用。 本研究讨论了与高强度钢筋混凝土板结合使用的石墨/环氧树脂（G/E）复合材料制成的创新梁的基本行为。 该研究将结合桥梁工程和复合材料两个学科，以确定在桥梁建设中使用CG/E（混凝土和G/E）截面的可行性。 新形状的目的是在混凝土板和G/E部分的界面处建立可靠的连接。 研究的一个方面将确定是否可以在混凝土G/E界面完全消除粘合剂。 研究的另一个方面将检查拟议部分的疲劳反应，以评估其是否适合在桥梁中应用。

Many of the nation's highway bridges are aging and are showing signs of deterioration due to environmental effects. Innovative and durable materials are needed for future bridge construction and major bridge rehabilitation. Fiber-reinforced plastics are known to have high resistance against environmental effects. An interdisciplinary approach is needed to investigate the potential application of FRP's in bridge engineering. This study addresses the basic behavior of innovative beams made with graphite/epoxy (G/E) composites used in combination with high-strength reinforced concrete slabs. The study will integrate two disciplines, bridge engineering and composite materials, to establish the feasibility of using CG/E (concrete and G/E) sections in bridge construction. The new shapes are aimed at developing a reliable connection at the interface of the concrete slab and the G/E sections. One aspect of the research will determine if adhesives can be eliminated altogether at the concrete G/E interface. Another aspect of the study will examine the fatigue response of the proposed sections to assess their suitability for application in bridges.